The move to Nhulunbuy, the main base of MAF, took place because of the new role that René has taken on him. He is now Crew Training Manager. In short, this means he is now responsible for the training and the skill level of pilots to ensure it remains at a high level, or is being developed where necessary. Also, he is deputy Chief Pilot, which means he acts as Chief Pilot when this person is away.

So many things have changed in our life that we haven’t been able to put it into words yet. The only thing unchanged is that we are still in Arnhem Land serving the Yolŋu people with MAF. What has changed, is the location, we’ve left Milingimbi behind and now live in Nhulunbuy, the main base of MAF. What has changed is René’s job. He is now Crew Training Manager, responsible for the training of all pilots. What has changed too is our family situation. Noah is now attending school four days a week, which changes Janneke’s life’s rhythm.

A while ago, I was asked if I wanted to be upgraded to check pilot. This is a level up from Instructor Pilot as a check pilot completes the induction process of new pilots and makes the decision whether a new pilot is ready to go solo for MAF.

Milingimbi, where we live, is a small island, just separated from the mainland. Because there is hardly anything to do, we own a small boat, together with two other families. Going boating/fishing is the only outing we have. Milingimbi doesn't have a harbour, so we take the boat out of the water all the time. The boat trailer was completely rusted through, and it wouldn't be long before the boat would crash through it